Hello,
Congratulations on your new van purchase! Equipping it can be a fun but daunting task.
Regarding the fridge, it really depends on your needs and budget. A small fridge can definitely make life on the road more convenient, but as you mentioned, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. Electric fridges are convenient but require a power source, while gas-powered fridges can be used without electricity but require a gas source. Keep in mind that you may not always have access to either of these sources, especially if you plan on going off the beaten path.
A cooler can be a good alternative if you're willing to buy ice every other day, but as you noted, it can become costly over time. Another option to consider is a thermoelectric cooler, which can be powered by a cigarette lighter or a portable power bank. These types of coolers are less expensive than electric or gas fridges and don't require ice, but they do have some limitations in terms of cooling capacity and energy efficiency.
As for where to find fridges and other van equipment, you may want to check out camping and outdoor stores such as Anaconda, BCF, or Ray's Outdoors, and
AGS Auto Parts. You can also look for used equipment on websites like Gumtree or Facebook Marketplace. If you're on a tight budget, you may want to consider DIY solutions like building your own storage cabinets or using camping gear instead of specialized van equipment.
Best of luck with your van build!